How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that's safe and secure for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move during sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their child to wake up feeling fresh and content!
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the mini cot beds and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is available in the product description and key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This can restrict airflow, which can result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends are safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the most secure choice for your child when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into the junior bed.
Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to grow with your child - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.
When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh style will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and an enviable variety of Baby Crib outfits. It is also easy to construct with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more information).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. It also features drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed until they're ready to move on. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small cot beds, you might be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. It's important to consider storage when you choose a cot. Many cots come with additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their use.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies, as well as other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.